New rules and checks are being introduced at airports for Brits flying into the EU, with some likening them to gadgets from a sci-fi film. These biometric security checks aim to speed up procedures and ensure safety for both passengers and staff.
The system uses facial or fingerprint recognition for each passenger, eliminating the need to repeatedly show your passport to human workers while also cross-checking your information against security databases at the same time.
From November, these checks will be implemented across EU airports for anyone arriving from outside the union, including the UK.
While this could add an extra layer of stress for travellers already feeling the pressure in the nerve-racking environment of an airport, one expert has clearly outlined what Brits should expect and need to have ready.
Dawn Morwood, Co-Director of travel information site Cheap Deals Away UK, explained that the process is relatively straightforward: “Passengers will now have to look into a camera that scans their faces, and place their index finger on a scanning screen. The system will register your name, biometric data, type of travel document, and the date and place of your entry and exit.”
“All you need to do is stand and look at a camera for a few seconds, and place your fingers on a scanner, before you’re asked to move on.
“It’s a process many Brits, if they have travelled into UK airports, will be familiar with. The data will be erased after three years to comply with data protection regulations.”
This new system, known as the EES or entry-exit system, is set to become commonplace in airports worldwide. It not only streamlines the check-in process but also helps monitor visa adherence by automatically calculating the duration of your stay in a country.
Offering some expert advice on how to navigate this new system, she said: “Border authorities will likely also be new to these systems, so the best thing you can do is be patient and get to the airport with ample time so you are not rushing to your gate if things get backed up. As long as you have your travel documents at the ready and are compliant with instructions, there’s nothing to worry about.
“If airlines offer the ability to upload your passport details in advance, make sure to do it a few days early to avoid any possible issues. Also make sure to double check that everything you have entered in the app is correct and matches your travel document.”
In case of any hiccups with the machine, Dawn advised staying calm and seeking help from airport staff. She added: “Remember that these systems are still new, and minor delays or technical glitches may occur, but help will be readily available to ensure you get through smoothly.”